Welcome to The Chicago Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Chicago Blackhawks games.

• Cofactor, Pulse secure healthcare funding.

• Dana Dimel passes at 62.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"The best way to cheer yourself is to try to cheer someone else up."

— Mark Twain

Trivia

What famous TV talk show host made Chicago her show's home base for 25 years?

A) Ellen DeGeneres

B) Oprah Winfrey

C) Wendy Williams

D) Rachel Ray

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The river dyed green annually in celebration of St. Patrick's Day in Chicago is B) Chicago River.

News

💼 Business

La-Z-Boy opens retail 'experience' in Lincoln Park. (link)

Chicago Beat: Cofactor AI, Pulse Charter Connect win funding for health care startups. (link)

🏒 Sports

5 takeaways from a dominant Chicago Bulls win, including Matas Buzelis’ 20-point night and Josh Giddey’s triple-double. (link)

Illinois assistant Dana Dimel, a head coach at Wyoming, Houston and UTEP, dies at age 62. (link)

🏦 Finance

Illinois building $534M tollway for greater access to O'Hare. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 DePaul Blue Demons Mens Basketball vs. Wichita State Shockers Mens Basketball
Wintrust Arena, Chicago, IL
Sat • Dec 14, 2024 • 12:00 PM | More Info

🏒 Chicago Blackhawks vs. New York Islanders
United Center, Chicago, IL
Sun • Dec 15, 2024 • 2:00 PM | More Info

Music & Concerts

🎸 B96 Bash with Kane Brown
The Salt Shed Indoors (Shed), Chicago, IL
Thu • Dec 12, 2024 • 7:00 PM | More Info

🎷 The Tempest & The Sea Hawk
Symphony Center-IL, Chicago, IL
Fri • Dec 13, 2024 • 1:30 PM | More Info

Family

🐦 The Hip Hop Nutcracker (Chicago)
CIBC Theatre, Chicago, IL
Thu • Dec 12, 2024 • 7:00 PM | More Info

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “An entirely underground Chicago” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Chicago Historical Events

1986: Chicago Bears win Super Bowl XX.

In 1986, the city of Chicago erupted in celebration as the Chicago Bears clinched victory in Super Bowl XX, marking a historic moment in the city's sports history. Led by head coach Mike Ditka and an exceptional roster of players, the Bears dominated the NFL season with their iconic "46 Defense" and the charismatic leadership of quarterback Jim McMahon. The team's remarkable performance culminated in a resounding 46-10 victory over the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl, solidifying their status as one of the greatest teams in NFL history. The city of Chicago rallied behind the Bears, and their triumph brought immense pride and joy to the passionate sports fans of the Windy City.

The 1986 Super Bowl win was a defining moment for the Chicago Bears and their loyal fan base, leaving an indelible mark on the city's sports legacy. The team's remarkable season and ultimate triumph in the Super Bowl XX showcased the resilience, skill, and determination of the players, earning them a place in the hearts of Chicagoans for generations to come. The victory parade that followed the Super Bowl win brought the entire city together in a jubilant display of unity and pride, as fans lined the streets to honor their beloved team and revel in the glory of their historic achievement.

The legacy of the 1986 Chicago Bears' Super Bowl win continues to resonate throughout the city, serving as a source of inspiration and pride for sports enthusiasts and Chicagoans alike. The team's remarkable journey to victory, characterized by unwavering determination and exceptional talent, remains a cherished chapter in the annals of Chicago sports history. The 1986 Bears' Super Bowl triumph stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Chicago and the profound impact of sports on the city's identity, forever etching their place in the hearts of fans and the fabric of Chicago's rich sporting heritage.

Famous People From Chicago

Hugh Hefner (1926-2017) – Founder of Playboy magazine.

Background and Early Life

Hugh Marston Hefner, born on April 9, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, was the eldest of two sons born to Grace and Glenn Hefner, who were strict Methodists. Despite his conservative upbringing, Hefner developed a rebellious spirit and a passion for challenging societal norms from an early age.

The Birth of Playboy (1953-1960)

In 1953, Hefner founded Playboy magazine, which quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The magazine's inaugural issue featured Marilyn Monroe on the cover, and it introduced the world to the iconic Playboy Bunny and the concept of the "Playboy lifestyle." Hefner's vision for the magazine was to celebrate sexuality, freedom, and sophistication, and it sparked a revolution in the publishing industry.

The Playboy Empire (1960s-1970s)

As Playboy's popularity soared, Hefner expanded his empire, venturing into television with the creation of "Playboy's Penthouse" and "Playboy After Dark." He also opened the first Playboy Club in Chicago, which became a symbol of luxury and entertainment. Hefner's influence extended beyond publishing, as he became a prominent figure in the entertainment and lifestyle industries.

Social and Cultural Impact (1960s-1980s)

Hefner's advocacy for civil rights and freedom of expression made him a controversial yet influential figure. He used Playboy as a platform to address social and political issues, challenging censorship and advocating for progressive causes. His impact on popular culture and the sexual revolution of the 1960s cannot be overstated.

Personal Life and Philanthropy (1980s-2017)

Hefner's personal life was often as publicized as his professional endeavors. His lavish lifestyle at the Playboy Mansion and his relationships with numerous Playmates garnered widespread attention. Despite the controversies, Hefner was also a philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes and organizations, including those focused on civil liberties and free speech.

Legacy and Chicago Connection

Hefner's connection to Chicago remained strong throughout his life. From his childhood in Chicago to the establishment of the first Playboy Club in the city, Chicago played a significant role in shaping Hefner's identity and career. His impact on the city's culture and entertainment scene is enduring, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in Chicago and beyond.

Key Achievements of Hugh Hefner:

• Founder of Playboy magazine, revolutionizing the publishing industry and popular culture.

• Advocate for civil rights and freedom of expression, using Playboy as a platform for social and political issues.

• Establishment of the first Playboy Club in Chicago, symbolizing luxury and entertainment.

• Philanthropic support for civil liberties and free speech, contributing to various charitable causes.

• Enduring legacy as an influential figure in the entertainment and lifestyle industries.

In summary, Hugh Marston Hefner's life was marked by his pioneering spirit, cultural impact, and unwavering commitment to challenging societal norms. His legacy as the founder of Playboy magazine and his influence on popular culture continue to resonate, making him a prominent figure in the history of Chicago and beyond.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Yannick Lyons

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